Old 4 New Lifejacket Upgrade in New South Wales

by Jeni Bone on 20 Dec 2013 Transport for NSW through Roads and Maritime is emphasising the need to wear a lifejacket while boating.

In a mult-faceted campaign, the message is clear: Lifejackets have moved with the times and are now much more advanced than they used to be.

An initiative called 'Old 4 New' aims to drive home the message of wearing a lifejacket when you’re out on the water, especially when in smaller boats and vessels.

This summer the Old 4 New Lifejacket Upgrade van will be visiting boat ramps throughout NSW, with experienced staff on hand to talk to people about lifejackets. The van will be making over 100 visits to popular boating locations across NSW.

One of the main aims of the Old 4 New Lifejacket Upgrade initiative is to showcase the range of new generation lifejackets, which are slim fitting and comfortable to wear for any type of on-water activity.

Many boaters don’t realise that over the past decade nine out of 10 people who drowned while boating weren’t wearing lifejackets.

The campaign hopes to encourage people to get in to the habit of putting on a lifejacket each time they go boating.

Lifejackets are the most important piece of safety equipment on any recreational vessel.

Modern inflatable lifejacket styles are designed to help you get the most out of your day on the water. They are less cumbersome and easy to wear, and they don’t get in the way of your favourite boating activities. With a wide range of slimline styles and colours available, there’s a lifejacket to suit your specific need. So be safe and wear yours, because a lifejacket could save your life.

A lifejacket must be carried for each person on board all vessels, unless exempt. It must be the correct size for the wearer and in good working condition. But it can’t save your life unless you’re wearing it.

Penalties apply to the owners and masters of vessels found not carrying lifejackets, or if there are not enough lifejackets for everyone on board. Penalties may also apply if occupants are not wearing lifejackets when they are required to do so.

* 9 out of 10 people who drowned when boating in NSW were not wearing a lifejacket,
* Lifejackets must be worn in vessels under 4.8m at night, offshore, when alone, and by children under 12 years of age.

More at www.lifejacketwearit.com.au and www.lifejacketwearit.com.au/thatsnoton/